Father Chris Riley AM, founder of Youth Off The Streets, passed away at home on 1 August 2025 following a long period of ill health. He was 70.
Father Riley established Youth Off The Streets in 1991 with a single food van providing meals to young people experiencing homelessness in Sydney’s inner city. He served as the organisation’s CEO for almost three decades before moving onto the Board as Founder and Executive Director in 2020. He stepped down from this role in 2022 due to illness.
From modest beginnings, Youth Off The Streets has grown to a staff of over 220 dedicated experts providing wraparound support services and education pathways to children and young people aged 12–24 in NSW and QLD.
Anne Fitzgerald, Chairperson of Youth Off The Streets’ Board, says: “The Youth Off The Streets family mourns the loss of our founder, Father Chris Riley.
He was a tireless advocate for homeless and disadvantaged youth, and he inspired and changed thousands of young lives. Father Riley will be remembered for his compassion, tenacity and unwavering belief that every young person deserves the chance to reach their full potential.”
Judy Barraclough, CEO of Youth Off The Streets, says: “Father Riley’s dedication to supporting and empowering young Australians in need has left a powerful legacy. His vision, drive and determination will continue to inspire our organisation as we strive to provide growing numbers of disadvantaged children and young people with safety, support and education for a better future.”
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For media: the full official statement here.